epinephrine subq for a 10 pounder

ERNURSE4MS · Jul 21, 2005

WOW, how does a 10lb end up needing sq epi? It's not unheard of, though. Most facilities do not carry smaller than a 25g though you can get smaller.I have a 29g 1/2" that I use for allergy inj for a little girl I take care of. And yes, it is normal for some blanching of the site w epi. You can give sq anywhere you can "pinch an inch". Hope this helps.

suzanne4, RN · Jul 21, 2005

I would be trying many other things before giving subq epinephrine to a infant that small. Such as SVNs with racemic epinephrine, either in high does or low dose......continously or every two hours. I do not even remember the time that I gave subq epi to an infant, it has been that long ago. There are many other treatments out there now. Inhalation treatment would definitely be my first choice.

endlesssummer1 · Jul 21, 2005

Yes this was my first in many years of nursing. Baby was a first time formula allergy and was in anaphylactic shock.

suzanne4, RN · Jul 21, 2005

That is a whole other story, you didn't mention it in your initial post. The thigh is just fine, and a 25G. is just fine.

You used to see subq epi given for difficult breathing scenerios and you do not see that anymore.

endlesssummer1 · Jul 21, 2005

Thank you all for your replys. My first thought was thigh because we always think thigh. Then, looking back, wondered if there was a better subq place for an infant. Everything happened fast and things went well. It was a learning experience that I hope not to see again.